Geology
Discover how our planet works, from the core to the clouds. You’ll study topics in earth science, such as volcanoes, mountain building, and our planet’s changing surface environment.
| Award Name | Degree - Honours Bachelor at UK Level 6 |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Open University |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree - Honours Bachelor at UK Level 6 | Open University |
Duration
How long it takes
Part time – 6 years
Full time – 3 years
Time limit – 16 years
Study method: Distance learning.
How much time do I need?
• Most of our students study part time, completing 60 credits a year.
• This will usually mean studying for 16–18 hours a week.
*You can complete your studies in six years part-time and three years full-time. However, your last module (SXG390) ends in September, so you’ll receive your final results in late October rather than June/July. You should consider this if you’re planning further study and wish to use your BSc (Honours) Geology as an entry qualification.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.
At The Open University we believe education should be open to all, so we provide a high-quality university education to anyone who wishes to realise their ambitions and fulfil their potential.
Even though there are no entry requirements, there are some skills that you’ll need to succeed. If you’re not quite ready for OU study we can guide you to resources that prepare you, many of which are free.
• Stage 1 includes an option module, Questions in science (S111) – check you’re ready to study this module.
https://www.open.edu/openlearncreate/course/view.php?id=2197
• Stage 1 also includes optional mathematics modules – check you’re ready to study these modules.
https://learn1.open.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=100193
Careers / Further progression
Career relevance
The Government has identified a shortage of skilled geoscientists to fill professional geoscience roles. And geology graduates are also well-placed to succeed at both scientific and non-scientific jobs.
Possible career areas include:
• data analysis and processing, including Geographic Information System (GIS) and remote sensing
• engineering geology
• environmental management, monitoring, remediation and conservation
• exploration and extraction of natural resources
• geohazard mitigation: seismology, volcanology
• research and investigation
• science communication and public engagement
• teaching
• waste management, recycling and sustainability.
Potential employers include conservation bodies; environmental and geoscience consultants; government agencies; mining and energy companies; science media and others.
Exploring your options: see 'Course Web Page' link below for further information.
Further information
Register for this course.
Start dates
• October 2024: Registration closes 05/09/2024
• February 2025: Registration closes 09/01/2025
Credit transfer: apply by 08/08/2024
BSc (Honours) Geology
Listen to Earth’s story – from molten origins to the cradle of modern life. Discover how our planet works, from the core to the clouds. You’ll study topics in earth science, such as volcanoes, mountain building, and our planet’s changing surface environment. Explore processes that link its diverse systems and decipher clues to its extraordinary history. Use your new skills to test theories and address critical societal problems like sustainability and the climate crisis. In addition, you’ll develop practical skills using geological maps and microscopes, and conduct investigations, describing past and present geological phenomena while gathering and analysing data.
Key features of the course
• Observe, describe and analyse rocks, fossils, minerals and landforms
• Develop investigative and laboratory skills using our state-of-the-art multi-award-winning OpenSTEM Labs
• Gain critical thinking, communication, collaboration and problem-solving skills
• Choose science and technology modules that complement your earth science modules
Stages 1–2 of this degree are the same as our Diploma of Higher Education in Geology (W84).
This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.
• You’ll start Stage 1 with either a 60-credit introductory science module or a choice of two out of three 30-credit mathematics modules, followed by another 60-credit science module.
• Next, in Stage 2, you’ll study a 60-credit Earth science module and choose a further 60 credits from a range of science and technology modules.
• Finally, in Stage 3, you’ll study a 60-credit and a 30-credit Earth science module, and complete your degree with a 30-credit project module.
See 'Course Web Page' link below for more information on modules.
Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
• Knowledge and understanding.
• Cognitive skills.
• Practical and professional skills.
• Key skills
Tel: +353 1 678 5399
Our advisers are available to take your call Monday to Friday from 08:30 to 17:00, excluding public holidays.